The environmentally friendly Prius is at its most efficient in stop-and-go driving, which will suit congested campus areas–and tight gas budgets–very well. The trouble-free Prius is also rated at the top by Consumer Reports for reliability and gets 4.5 stars out of 5 from J.D. Power in Overall Quality–Mechanical.

The Corolla is one of the best, most trouble-free cars available. Fuel economy is stellar, Consumer Reports rates reliability tops, and the Corolla ranks 4.5 out of 5 stars in J.D. Power’s Overall Quality — Mechanical. Make sure you option up to both the seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain bags, along with ABS